Question

The element whose atoms have the electron configuration \([\mathrm{Kr}] 4 d^{10} 5 \mathrm{s}^{2} 5 p^{3}(\mathrm{a})\) is in group 13 of the periodic table; (b) bears a similarity to the element Bi; (c) is similar to the element \(\mathrm{Te} ;\) (d) is a transition element.

Short answer

The element is Thallium (Tl). (a) It's in group 13; (b) It shares group properties with Bi as it's in the same group; (c) It has similar size and same number of energy levels as Te as they are in the same period; (d) Tl isn't a transition element as it's in the p-block.

Step-by-step solution

Identifying the Element

Using the given electron configuration \([\mathrm{Kr}] 4d^{10} 5s^{2} 5p^{3}\), let's identify the element. The electron configuration belongs to the element thallium (Tl). The outermost electron shell configuration is \(5s^{2} 5p^{3}\), which is the structure in group 13.

Comparison with Bi

Checking the similarity to Bi (bismuth), we can see that Bi is also in group 15 of the Periodic Table like Tl, which means they share the same group properties.

Comparison with Te

Te (tellurium) is in the same period (5th period) as Tl. Elements in the same period have the same number of electron shells. So, Tl and Te will have similar size and same number of energy levels.

Checking for Transition Element

Transition elements are found in the d-block of the periodic table. However, Tl is found in the p-block, hence, it is not a transition element.

Key concepts

Periodic Table

The periodic table is a comprehensive chart displaying all known chemical elements and organizes them based on their atomic number, electron configuration, and recurring chemical properties. This arrangement makes it a valuable tool for understanding elements and anticipating their behavior in chemical reactions.

- **Groups** are the columns of the periodic table. Elements in the same group often have similar chemical and physical properties because they have the same number of electrons in their outer shell.
- **Periods** are the rows of the periodic table. Elements in the same period have the same number of electron shells, allowing for comparison on aspects such as atomic size or ionization energy.
- The periodic table is divided into blocks - s, p, d, and f - which indicate the subshell that is being filled with electrons. This block-based organization helps understand the type of element, such as metals, nonmetals, and metalloids.

Transition Elements

Transition elements are a group of metals found in the middle of the periodic table, specifically in the d-block. They are characterized by their ability to form compounds with variable oxidation states and their usage of d-orbitals.

- These elements include well-known metals such as iron, copper, and gold. They typically have high melting points and are good conductors of electricity.
- Unlike the element thallium, which belongs to the p-block, transition elements have partially filled d-orbitals, contributing to their unique properties like colored compounds, participation in catalysis, and formation of complex ions.
- Transition elements play an essential role in many biological systems and are widely used in industrial applications due to their versatile chemical behavior.

Element Identification

Element identification involves determining the specific element from an electron configuration or other properties. In the case of the electron configuration \([ \mathrm{Kr} ] 4d^{10} 5s^{2} 5p^{3}\), the element in question is thallium (Tl).

- The electron configuration provides valuable information about the element's position on the periodic table. Here, \([ \mathrm{Kr} ]\) represents the core electrons configuration, and the rest shows the outer electrons, guiding us to thallium, located in group 13.
- Recognizing these patterns allows scientists to predict chemical reactions, understand bonding behavior, and study element properties deeply.
- Element identification is crucial in both scientific research and industry for various applications, from electronics to pharmaceuticals.

Chemical Properties

The chemical properties of an element are influenced by its electron configuration and position on the periodic table. These properties determine how the element will react with others and dictate its role in chemistry.

- For elements like thallium, being in group 13 suggests that it may behave similarly to other elements in the group, such as aluminum or gallium. This could mean forming compounds with oxidation state +3 or participating in particular types of reactions.
- Chemical properties include reactivity, bonding tendencies, and compound formation. Thallium, for instance, can form various oxides and sulfides.
- An understanding of chemical properties is essential for fields ranging from material science to biology, emphasizing the creation and manipulation of new compounds for technology and living organisms.